Negros Oriental is a province located in the Central Visayas region of the Philippines, known for its stunning natural beauty, rich cultural heritage, and abundance of exciting activities.
With its pristine beaches, majestic waterfalls, lush mountains, and vibrant towns and cities, Negros Oriental offers a wide range of things to see and do for travelers of all interests. Explore some of the best sights and experiences that Negros Oriental and its neighboring islands have to offer.
Visitors to Negros Oriental and the surrounding islands can enjoy a wide range of activities and attractions, including:
- Apo Island – Apo Island is a small volcanic island located off the coast of Negros Oriental. It is a popular destination for snorkelers and scuba divers due to its stunning coral reefs and diverse marine life. Visitors can take a boat ride to the island and enjoy a day of snorkeling or diving in the crystal-clear waters.
- Casaroro Falls – The Casaroro Falls is a majestic waterfall located in Valencia, Negros Oriental. It cascades down a steep cliff and is surrounded by lush greenery. Visitors can hike to the waterfall and take a refreshing dip in its cool waters.
- Twin Lakes of Balinsasayao and Danao – The Twin Lakes of Balinsasayao and Danao are located in a natural reserve and are surrounded by towering trees and lush vegetation. Visitors can take a boat ride or hike around the lakes and enjoy the stunning views.
- Dumaguete City – Dumaguete City is the provincial capital of Negros Oriental. It is known for its vibrant arts and music scene and is home to several historic landmarks, such as the St. Catherine of Alexandria Cathedral, Dumaguete Belfry, and Silliman University.
- Mabinay Caves- The Mabinay Caves are a network of over 400 caves located in the mountains of Negros Oriental, offering visitors a unique and thrilling underground adventure. Visitors can explore the caves on guided tours, which range from easy walks to challenging climbs and rappelling down waterfalls.
- Bais Dolphin Watching- Negros Oriental is known for its rich marine life, and visitors can go whale and dolphin watching off the coast of Bais City. The best time to go is from March to October, when the sea is calm and the marine life is abundant. Visitors can take a boat ride to see pods of dolphins and even spot a few whales if they are lucky.
- Manjuyod Sandbar-Located off the coast of Bais City, the Manjuyod Sandbar is a natural wonder that stretches for several kilometers. Visitors can take a boat ride to the sandbar, which offers stunning views of the crystal-clear waters and the surrounding islands. The sandbar is also a popular spot for swimming, snorkeling, and diving.
- Festivals – Negros Oriental is known for its colorful festivals, which showcase the province’s unique culture and traditions. One of the most popular festivals is the Buglasan Festival, which is celebrated every October. The festival features street dancing, cultural shows, and culinary competitions.
- Food – Negros Oriental is a food lover’s paradise. The province is known for its delicious and diverse cuisine. One of the must-try dishes is the “Silvanas,” a delicious dessert made from buttercream sandwiched between two cashew-meringue wafers. Other popular dishes include “Chicken Inasal,” a grilled chicken dish marinated in a special sauce, and “Sisig,” a dish made from chopped pork or chicken seasoned with spices and served on a sizzling plate.
- Siquijor Island – Located just a short ferry ride from Negros Oriental, Siquijor Island is a small but stunning island known for its pristine beaches, tranquil waterfalls, and rich cultural heritage. Visitors can explore the island’s historic sites, including the 17th-century St. Francis de Assisi Church and the old Spanish fort of Fort San Juan, or simply relax on the island’s stunning beaches and enjoy the laid-back atmosphere.
- Bohol Island – Bohol Island is located near Negros Oriental and is known for its iconic Chocolate Hills, Tarsier Sanctuary, and beautiful beaches. Visitors can take a ferry or plane to Bohol Island and enjoy a day of sightseeing and adventure.
- Sumilon Island- Located off the southeastern coast of Cebu, Sumilon Island is a stunning island known for its pristine white-sand beaches, crystal-clear waters, and vibrant marine life. Visitors can go snorkeling and scuba diving in the island’s clear waters, or explore the island’s lush forests and hidden lagoons.
Negros Oriental and its neighboring islands offer a wealth of attractions and activities for visitors to explore. From natural wonders like waterfalls, caves, and marine sanctuaries, to cultural landmarks like museums and festivals, there is something for everyone to see and do. Whether you’re a nature lover, a history buff, or simply looking to relax on the beach, from stunning natural wonders to rich culture and delicious cuisine, there is something for everyone in this beautiful region of the Philippines.